India lacks sufficient data on booster dose; not needed now, say experts

Not enough data has been generated locally to decide on the need for a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine for those fully inoculated, say experts amid the possibility of a third wave of the viral disease hitting the country between September and October.

An expert panel set up by an institute under the MHA has predicted that the third wave of COVID-19 can hit the country anytime between September and October and suggested significantly ramping up the vaccination pace.

The World Health Organisation has, however, sought a twomonth halt on administering booster shots of COVID-19 vaccines in view of severely constrained vaccine availability around the globe.

“India will decide on booster dose based on scientific evidence generated locally. Studies are already underway to determine the need and timing of booster for currently used vaccines in the country,” said Dr N K Arora, chairman of the COVID-19 working group of NTAGI. The need for booster doses will be determined by the epidemiology in the country besides the durability of protection provided by the current dosage regime of the vaccines. Any booster dose regime has also to ensure that adverse events are not associated with boosting,” Arora said.

AIIMS Director Randeep Guleria said there is no definite evidence to suggest currently that there is a need to give booster shots to those who have been vaccinated in the past. “We should vaccinate those who have not even received a single dose so as to prevent severe disease and death in the upcoming wave. Currently, booster shots are not required and as more data emerges it will then be clear when and what type of booster shot is required,” he said.

WHO has sought a two-month halt on administering booster shots over constrained vaccine availability